For the past 16 months, McClellan Elementary student Mason was fighting cancer. It’s a fight he won! On Monday, September 16, Mason rang the bell at the hospital to mark his victory. Mason was set to return to school on Tuesday, September 17, and the faculty and staff at McClellan knew they had to do something to celebrate Mason. And they had something big in mind.
Around lunchtime on Tuesday, the entire school gathered on the playground while Mason, his twin brother, older brother, and cousin were kept busy inside the school. Even the Thomas Jefferson Jaguar Marching Band and the TJ Cheerleaders were there to show the support of the entire community. When everyone was ready, Mason came out to see his entire school cheering for him. Mason’s family was there to experience it all.
When the music and cheering quieted, McClellan principal Justin Liberatore explained how caring and supporting McClellan family members is an important aspect of being a McClellan rockstar. And then Mr. Liberatore wrapped up things by asking Mason to receive a bell from the TJ Jaguar, climb to the top of the play structure, and ring the bell for everyone to hear.
As Mason rang the bell, the entire crowd chanted his name, concluding a touching, inspirational, and motivational tribute very few members of the McClellan family will ever forget.